Open The Door To Innovation With Reverse Mentoring With Maree McPherson Less Than 15 podcast

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What many owners get wrong about timing, taxes and true value If you think business valuation only matters when you're ready to sell, think again. This week, we speak with Steven Tindale, Partner at DFK Gooding Partners in Perth, about why getting an accurate business valuation well before a sale is one of the smartest strategic moves an owner can make. Steven outlines the financial, strategic, and legal reasons to get a valuation early, and why waiting might cost you more than you think. From understanding your true market position to avoiding unexpected tax surprises and preparing for retirement or succession, this conversation offers many practical insights. In this episode: When and why you really need a business valuation (it’s not just for sale time) Why your sale price may differ from your business valuation Common valuation misconceptions that catch business owners out The “silver handcuff” effect (and why you might not be able to walk away) Key financial and non-financial factors that influence value Actions you can take now to strengthen your valuation position Ready to find out how sale-ready your business really is? The Business Valuation Scorecard from DFK Gooding Partners takes just a minute to complete and gives you a clear snapshot of your business’s valuation risks and opportunities. It’s a smart first step before considering an official valuation—or even just starting the conversation. About our guest: Steven Tindale is a Partner with expertise in Business Services and Advisory at DFK Gooding Partners in Perth. With over 17 years of experience, Steven specialises in accounting, tax and advisory services and has a particular focus on business valuation, helping owners understand their value and maximise outcomes. Less Than 15 is a show brought to you by leading Accountants and Business Advisors, DFK Australia New Zealand . We help business owners make better decisions with our local knowledge, national connections and global reach. Search for a firm here and have a conversation with us today!…

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Before you post on the socials again, listen to this 14:03

9 days ago14:03

14:03

The smart way to measure what’s working in your online marketing Most business owners invest time, energy, and budget in digital marketing—often without knowing what's actually working. In this energising episode, Leanne O’Sullivan from Adventure Digital joins us to reveal the blind spots many businesses have and how to uncover the metrics that matter. Spoiler: it’s not all about likes and follows. We unpack the four key areas of digital marketing, explain how to utilise your existing data more effectively, and walk you through how to track your customer journey more clearly. Whether you’re marketing a service or a product, this episode will help you stop guessing and start making more informed, confident decisions. What we cover: Why social media ≠ your whole digital marketing strategy The four key digital marketing areas you should focus on How to use UTM tracking and Google Analytics more effectively The real role of email marketing and what to pay attention to Why segmentation improves client retention and ROI What not to do before reviewing your data Action Step: Download the free Google Data Studio template from the podcast page and connect your website analytics. Begin benchmarking where your traffic, leads, and sales are actually coming from so you can do more of what works. Visit this link to access the resource. Guest Bio: Leanne O’Sullivan is the founder and CEO of Adventure Digital , a marketing agency based in regional NSW that helps purpose-driven businesses thrive online. Known for her no-nonsense approach, Leanne specialises in simplifying digital marketing and helping clients understand what really drives leads and conversions. She’s a passionate advocate for data-informed decisions and smart, sustainable growth. Less Than 15 is a show brought to you by leading Accountants and Business Advisors, DFK Australia New Zealand . We help business owners make better decisions with our local knowledge, national connections and global reach. Search for a firm here and have a conversation with us today!…

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Is an SMSF right for you as a business owner? 13:20

16 days ago13:20

13:20

What business owners need to know before managing their own super For business owners, a self-managed super fund (SMSF) can offer flexibility, control, and some strategic benefits you might not have considered. But is it the right fit for you? In this episode, we chat with Daniel Shaw, Director and SMSF specialist at DFK Benjamin King Money in Melbourn e, to explore when and why an SMSF might be a smart move—and the common traps to avoid. Daniel explains the key benefits of SMSFs, who they’re best suited to, and the responsibilities that come with taking the DIY super path. If you’ve ever wondered whether you could (or should) rent your business premises from your own super fund, this one’s for you. What we cover in this episode: What a self-managed super fund (SMSF) is and how it differs from industry funds Why SMSFs can suit business owners and when they’re not the right fit How SMSFs can hold and lease commercial property to your business Examples of surprising (but legal) SMSF investment options Common risks and misconceptions—and how to avoid costly mistakes Why early advice is essential, not optional Action step: Download our free checklist: The Lifecycle of a Self-Managed Super Fund and start thinking through whether this might be the right option for your business and retirement strategy. Then have a conversation with your accountant or licensed financial advisor. Our Guest Daniel Shaw is a Director at DFK Benjamin King Money in Melbourne and the firm’s in-house SMSF specialist. With deep experience in accounting, business strategy, and compliance, he helps clients utilise self-managed super funds strategically, balancing flexibility with smart risk management. Less Than 15 is a show brought to you by leading Accountants and Business Advisors, DFK Australia New Zealand . We help business owners make better decisions with our local knowledge, national connections and global reach. Search for a firm here and have a conversation with us today!…

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Who's holding the fort? Estate Planning for Business Owners 14:14

23 days ago14:14

14:14

As a business owner, you’ve likely considered what happens to your personal assets when you’re no longer here, but what about your business? In this important episode, we speak with Melissa Healy, Senior Manager at DFK Everalls and Director of Everalls Wealth, to explore what estate planning looks like when your business is your biggest asset. Melissa demystifies the complexities of estate planning beyond the personal will, explains the importance of enduring powers of attorney, and highlights the necessity of having a business continuity file. Whether you're a sole trader, part of a partnership, or operate through a trust, this conversation will help you take the steps to ensure your business is protected, no matter what happens. In This Episode: Why estate planning for business owners is more than just having a will The role of enduring powers of attorney and company powers of attorney What to include in your In Case of Emergency file Key documents to review: partnership agreements, buy-sell agreements, shareholder agreements Steps to take now to safeguard your business and your family Guest Bio. Melissa Healy is an Accountant, business adviser, and financial planner at DFK Everalls in Canberra. She's passionate about helping build better businesses and financial futures. Resource: Download the Business Estate Planning Checklist here . Less Than 15 is a show brought to you by leading Accountants and Business Advisors, DFK Australia New Zealand . We help business owners make better decisions with our local knowledge, national connections and global reach. Search for a firm here and have a conversation with us today!…

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Reframe risk to drive protection and innovation 15:33

30 days ago15:33

15:33

The benefits of People-centred Risk Management In this episode of Less Than 15 , we speak with Lisa Sisson, author of Risk Starts and Ends with People and the founder of the Unearth consultancy. We explore a refreshing take on risk management, one that prioritises people, not just policies. Lisa shares why the traditional ‘tick-the-box’ compliance approach is no longer sufficient, how disengagement is one of the greatest hidden risks in business, and what practical actions leaders can take to create safer and more innovative workplaces. Whether you’re leading a team or flying solo, this episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to rethink how they identify, mitigate, and turn risks into opportunities. In this episode, you'll learn: Why risk management starts with mindset, not checklists The connection between disengagement and increased exposure to risk How your people can become your strongest ‘risk sensors’ The two types of risk every business faces What it takes to build a “safe zone” where people speak up early How to turn early warning signs into strategic advantage Action Step: Start by creating space for your team to speak up without fear. A simple first step: ask your people what risks they see and how the business could respond better. Guest Bio: Lisa Sisson is the author of Risk Starts and Ends with People and the founder of Unearth . She works with leaders and organisations to humanise their approach to risk management, helping them reduce exposure while enhancing engagement, culture, and performance. Use special code Lessthan15 for an exclusive discount on book purchases. Less Than 15 is a show brought to you by leading Accountants and Business Advisors, DFK Australia New Zealand . We help business owners make better decisions with our local knowledge, national connections and global reach. Search for a firm here and have a conversation with us today!…

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Profit ≠ Cash - Why a healthy P&L doesn’t mean a healthy bank balance 15:34

5 weeks ago15:34

15:34

You’re profitable on paper, but your bank balance tells a different story. Why? In this episode, we speak with Mike McNab, Partner at DFK Oswin Griffiths Carlton in Auckland, about the critical differences between profit and cash, and how too many business owners find out the hard way. Mike breaks down five common cashflow killers, offers simple tactics to tighten your finances, and shares how to use tools like Xero and SYFT to stay ahead of the curve. This is a focused, practical chat to help you spot risks, boost cash, and make better decisions in any market conditions. In this episode, we cover: Why profit doesn’t guarantee positive cashflow The 5 biggest cashflow killers to watch for How to spot patterns in customer payments Strategies to speed up cash collection Simple Xero tools to track cash and stay alert How tech can reduce surprises and support smarter decisions Mike also mentioned the value of using SYFT , an AI-powered cloud software that can create reports, forecasts, dashboards, and consolidations. Action Step Take 10 minutes each day to review your cashflow. Ask: What’s due in? What’s due out? Any red flags? Start tracking patterns before they become problems. Guest Bio Mike McNab is a Partner at DFK Oswin Griffiths Carlton in Auckland. With deep expertise in business performance and advisory, he helps SMEs across New Zealand navigate the complex relationship between profitability, cashflow, and sustainability, often using tech tools to make smarter, faster decisions. Less Than 15 is a show brought to you by leading Accountants and Business Advisors, DFK Australia New Zealand . We help business owners make better decisions with our local knowledge, national connections and global reach. Search for a firm here and have a conversation with us today!…

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Free yourself from the 30% burden 14:35

6 weeks ago14:35

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How to stop doing everything and lead your business forward Are you spending too much time on tasks that someone else could be doing? If you’re still stuck doing everything in your business, you’re not alone—and you may be carrying what today’s guest calls “the 30% burden.” In this practical episode, Kristy Smith, the Founder of outsourcing specialists Virtual Elves, shares her method for identifying, systemising, and letting go of the time-consuming tasks that keep business owners out of their zone of genius. You’ll learn how to free up space to think, lead, and grow without losing control. In this episode, we cover: What the “30% burden” looks like in a typical business The mindset shift required to let go of tasks The power of SAD: systemise, automate, delegate—or ditch Why ditching tasks can be just as powerful as delegating How to run a simple time-and-task audit in just 5 days Six categories that help you organise and identify your overwhelm Action Step Start tracking your time and tasks for five days—just jot down what you’re doing and when. It will give you a clear picture of what you can systemise, automate, delegate or ditch. Then use Kristy’s free downloadable list of “101 things a VA can do” to spark ideas. Guest Bio Kristy Smith is the founder of Virtual Elves, a business she launched in 2009 to help small business owners reclaim their time and scale with support. She is an expert in virtual assistance, delegation strategies, and business systems. Less Than 15 is a show brought to you by leading Accountants and Business Advisors, DFK Australia New Zealand . We help business owners make better decisions with our local knowledge, national connections and global reach. Search for a firm here and have a conversation with us today!…

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ESG for SMEs: Why it matters more than you think 13:28

7 weeks ago13:28

13:28

Stay competitive, attract top talent, and secure funding by becoming ESG-ready. ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) isn't just a corporate buzzword, it’s becoming a business reality for small and medium-sized enterprises. In this episode, CIB Audit Director Chaitanya Mawji explains why ESG is no longer just for the big end of town. We explore how ESG frameworks can attract top talent, influence funding opportunities, and satisfy supply chain expectations, plus, why it’s smarter to view ESG as a strategic investment, not just a compliance burden. Whether you're a business owner wanting to stay competitive, win more tenders, or future-proof your operations, this is the 15-minute insight you need. In this episode, we cover: What ESG really means and why it applies to SMEs The dual pressure of compliance and strategic positioning How ESG can help unlock green loans and funding The influence of ESG on customer and hiring decisions Why ESG disclosures might hit your inbox even if you’re not legally required Action Step Google “ESG in [your industry]” to get a quick overview of emerging expectations, and start thinking about where ESG fits into your brand, operations, and future plans. Guest Bio Chaitanya Mawji is Audit Director at CIB Accountants and Advisors, our DFKANZ firm in Parramatta. With deep experience across assurance and compliance, he's passionate about helping businesses view ESG as an opportunity for growth and innovation, not just red tape. Don't miss the ESG Webinar with Chaitanya 1pm AEST Thursday, July 3. More depth, and the opportunity to ask questions - register here Less Than 15 is a show brought to you by leading Accountants and Business Advisors, DFK Australia New Zealand . We help business owners make better decisions with our local knowledge, national connections and global reach. Search for a firm here and have a conversation with us today!…

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Keeping AI on brand and authentic 15:03

8 weeks ago15:03

15:03

AI can turbocharge your productivity, but without care, it can also erode the trust you’ve worked so hard to build with your audience. In this energising and practical conversation, Angela is joined by AI coach and speaker Leanne Shelton, CEO of Human Edge AI Training, to explore how business owners can harness AI for content creation without losing their human touch . Leanne shares real-world examples, her “three commandments” for training your AI, and tips for prompt refinement that boost both quality and connection. Whether you’re using AI to write emails, blog posts, or proposals, this episode will help you amplify your voice, not erase it. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why saving time isn’t the only goal with AI—and how to avoid the “productivity trap” The 3 essential areas to train your AI tool on (brand, business, and customer) How to improve your prompt skills and build a collaborative relationship with your AI assistant What good AI content sounds like—and why the best AI outputs feel fully human Bonus Resource Download Leanne’s free Brand Voice Prompting Guide to start training your tool the right way. Action Step: Pick one key area of communication, like LinkedIn posts or proposals, and start training your AI tool today. Add examples, tweak the outputs, and watch the quality improve. Less Than 15 is a show brought to you by leading Accountants and Business Advisors, DFK Australia New Zealand . We help business owners make better decisions with our local knowledge, national connections and global reach. Search for a firm here and have a conversation with us today!…

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Psychosocial Hazards in the Workplace 15:05

9 weeks ago15:05

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Psychosocial hazards might sound like corporate jargon, but at the heart of it, we’re talking about protecting your people from harm at work. In this episode, Wendy Jeffery-Lonnie from DFK Gooding Partners returns to break it down in plain English. We explore what psychological safety really means, why it’s becoming a non-negotiable in business today, and what you, as a business owner, can do to create a safer, more sustainable workplace culture. Whether you’ve heard whispers about legislation changes or just want to do better for your team, this episode is a must-listen. Wendy shares practical, common-sense ideas for identifying risks and taking simple steps to make work better for everyone. What We Cover in Less Than 15 Minutes What psychosocial hazards actually are and why they matter How unaddressed stress at work can become a physical and legal risk The link between clarity, autonomy, support, and safety The role of leaders in shaping a wellbeing-focused culture Where to start—even if you feel unsure or under-resourced Download the Psychologically Safe Workplaces Checklist compiled by Wendy here. And access the psychosocial hazards guidelines from Safe Work Australia or your local WHS site. Take action - Choose one area, such as role clarity, workload, or support, and ask your team for honest input. Start there, and build from what you learn. You can revisit Wendy's episode on The Right to Disconnect legislation here . Less Than 15 is a show brought to you by leading Accountants and Business Advisors, DFK Australia New Zealand . We help business owners make better decisions with our local knowledge, national connections and global reach. Search for a firm here and have a conversation with us today!…

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Season Two - What's coming! 4:53

10 weeks ago4:53

4:53

Welcome back to Less Than 15 , the bite-sized podcast series by DFK Australia New Zealand, designed for time-poor business owners who still want quality insights. In this intro episode to Season 2, host Angela Raspass gives you a sneak peek into the practical and strategic topics coming your way over the next ten weeks. You’ll hear from a mix of expert advisors from across the DFK network and guest specialists who deliver succinct, real-world guidance that helps you lead, grow, and future-proof your business. From AI and brand voice to psychological safety, digital marketing metrics, and estate planning, this season is packed with timely insights and action steps. If you’re looking for high-value, low-fuss business content you can apply right away, you're in the right place. Subscribe today and tune in each Tuesday to catch the latest episode. In Season 2, we’ll explore: How to meet your psychological safety responsibilities What ESG really means for SMEs How to infuse your brand voice into your AI tools Where risk starts and how to lead through it How to reduce task overload and reclaim thinking time The must-know digital marketing metrics Self-managed super funds and estate planning essentials …and more. Listen now, subscribe, and get actionable insights every Tuesday in under 15 minutes. Less Than 15 is a show brought to you by leading Accountants and Business Advisors, DFK Australia New Zealand . We help business owners make better decisions with our local knowledge, national connections and global reach. Search for a firm here and have a conversation with us today!…

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The Finale! Key Insights and Resources from Series One of Less Than 15 14:28

40 weeks ago14:28

14:28

In this special final episode of Less Than 15 , we take a journey through the highlights of Series 1, revisiting the most valuable insights from our guests and suggesting one key action you can implement immediately to strengthen your business. From navigating tough times to preparing your business for sale, each episode was packed with actionable advice — and we’ve also included links to free resources that can help you dive deeper. Key Takeaways from This Episode: Episode 1: Insights for Tough Times with Rob Shelton Focus on balancing cost-cutting with growth opportunities. Episode 2: The Hidden Business Economy with Liz Fleming Unlock grant opportunities with a strategic plan. Free Resource: Grant Application Checklist & Australian Grants Search Sites. Episode 3: Open the Door to Innovation with Reverse Mentoring with Maree McPherson. Bring diverse perspectives into your leadership. Free Resource : The differences between coaching and mentoring Episode 4: The Productivity Power of AI for SMEs with Gihan Perera AI can streamline processes and free up time. Free Resource : Accelerate AI: Build your capability rapidly Episode 5: The Right to Disconnect with Wendy Jeffery-Lonnie Build clear out-of-hours communication policies for your team. Free Resource : Right to Disconnect Guide and Checklist Episode 6: Everyday Cybersecurity with Christina Arcane Implement strong password hygiene and educate your team. Free Resource : Launching your cybersecurity employee program Episode 7: Creating Menopause-Friendly Workplaces with Sonya Lovell Simple adjustments can make a big difference in supporting staff. Free Resource : Menopause-Friendly Workplace Checklist. Episode 8: Data-Driven Business Decisions with Mitchell Brooks Track KPIs in real-time for smarter business growth. Episode 9: Shorter, Smarter Meetings with Donna McGeorge Keep meetings to 25 minutes to maximise efficiency. Free Resource : A Guide to Transform Your Meetings. Episode 10: Getting Your Business Ready for Sale with Gary Nugent Start planning 3-5 years ahead to maximize business value. If you found value in this series, take a moment to subscribe so you don’t miss out on Series 2 of Less Than 15 — where we’ll continue to provide you with expert advice and actionable insights to grow your business! Less Than 15 is a show brought to you by leading Accountants and Business Advisors, DFK Australia New Zealand . We help business owners make better decisions with our local knowledge, national connections and global reach. Search for a firm here and have a conversation with us today!…

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How to maximise the sale price of your business 15:02

41 weeks ago15:02

15:02

Preparing Your Business for Sale: Start Early, Sell Smart Selling your business is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make as a business owner. In this episode of Less Than 15 , Gary Nugent, Managing Partner at DFK Nugent in Melbourne and Chair of DFK Australia New Zealand, shares how to prepare your business for sale. Gary explains why it’s crucial to start planning 3 to 5 years in advance and provides practical advice on how to increase your business’s value before you even think about selling. If you want to ensure you’re not leaving money on the table, this episode is a must-listen. Key Takeaways: Start with the End in Mind: Most business owners leave it too late to start preparing for a sale. Gary recommends starting at least 3 to 5 years in advance to ensure you have enough time to make necessary improvements and position your business for the best possible sale price. Avoid Common Pitfalls: The biggest risk of leaving it too late is that you’ll end up selling your business for less than it’s worth. If you don’t have enough time to lock in key people or fix issues within the business, it may appear less attractive to potential buyers and you could become a “price taker” rather than getting what your business is truly worth. Focus on Key Areas for Improvement: Gary highlights the importance of focusing on core areas like brand strength, system documentation, key people, business plans, and client relationships. Think about what makes franchises successful: a strong brand, documented systems, and clear plans. Create a Transferable Business: It’s not about selling you —it’s about selling the business. Make sure you have systems in place that allow the business to run independently of you. This means empowering your team and ensuring your processes are well-documented. Different Avenues to Market: From selling to a competitor to engaging with brokers or attending trade fairs, Gary outlines multiple pathways to selling your business. Each comes with its own risks and benefits, so it’s important to choose the right strategy based on your goals and timeline. Why You Should Listen: If you’re a business owner thinking about selling your business—whether it’s in 3 years or 10 years—this episode provides invaluable advice on how to maximise your business’s value and avoid common pitfalls. Don’t leave this important decision to the last minute. Start planning now to ensure a successful and profitable sale. Guest Information: Gary Nugent is the Managing Partner of DFK Nugent in Melbourne and the Chair of DFK Australia New Zealand. With extensive experience in advising businesses on mergers, acquisitions, and sales, Gary is a seasoned expert in preparing businesses for sale and ensuring owners get the best value for their hard work. Less Than 15 is a show brought to you by leading Accountants and Business Advisors, DFK Australia New Zealand . We help business owners make better decisions with our local knowledge, national connections and global reach. Search for a firm here and have a conversation with us today!…

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Make your meetings shorter, sharper, and smarter! 15:00

42 weeks ago15:00

15:00

Meetings can be a huge time drain for business owners like you. In this episode of Less Than 15 , Donna McGeorge, an expert in productivity and efficiency, discusses how you can cut your meetings down to just 25 minutes without sacrificing effectiveness. Donna shares practical strategies to make meetings more focused and productive, so you can free up your time for what really matters. If your calendar is packed with back-to-back meetings, this episode is for you! Key Takeaways: The Problem with 60-Minute Meetings: Most meetings are set for an hour by default, but they often waste valuable time. Donna explains why cutting meetings down to 25 minutes creates a sense of urgency and focus, leading to better outcomes in less time. Creating Focus and Clarity: When you limit a meeting to 25 minutes, everyone knows they need to get to the point quickly. This sense of urgency eliminates unnecessary chatter and gets everyone aligned on the task at hand. Managing Different Types of Meetings: Short, sharp meetings work best for operational discussions or regular check-ins with 5-7 participants. For more strategic or creative sessions, consider using structured frameworks to maximise productivity even in a shorter time frame. Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Don't just replace one-hour meetings with more short ones! Use the extra time to catch up on work, decompress, or prepare for your next meeting. It’s about having fewer, better meetings. Taking the Leap: You don’t need anyone’s permission to make your meetings shorter. Start with your own meetings and lead by example. Set the expectation that meetings will be 25 minutes, with a clear purpose and desired outcomes. Why You Should Listen: If you’re overwhelmed by back-to-back meetings and want to take control of your schedule, this episode offers practical steps to make your meetings shorter and more productive. Learn how to create space for the work that truly matters! Visit the dfkanz website episode page to download your free guide from Donna to transform your own meetings. Guest Information: Donna McGeorge is a productivity and efficiency expert, author, and speaker. She helps businesses and individuals reclaim their time by making meetings more effective and impactful. Less Than 15 is a show brought to you by leading Accountants and Business Advisors, DFK Australia New Zealand . We help business owners make better decisions with our local knowledge, national connections and global reach. Search for a firm here and have a conversation with us today!…

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From gut feel to data-driven decisions for business growth 15:28

43 weeks ago15:28